Bangkok--16 Aug--PC & Associates Consulting On August 8, 2007, representatives of Casio Computer Co., Ltd. and police officers from the Metropolitan Police Bureau successfully raided eight infringing retail shops in the Klongthom area, which is under the jurisdiction of Jakkrawat Police Station. The police raid team under the supervision of Pol. Maj. Gen. Viboon Bangthamai, the Deputy of Metropolitan Police Bureau, and the Suppression of Intellectual Property Rights Infringement Division team, Metropolitan Police Bureau (the Royal Thai Police), seized several hundred counterfeit practical and scientific calculators bearing the “Casio” mark. “Consumers pay to buy genuine goods, but end up getting counterfeiting products,” said a Casio representative. “This illegal action should be considered theft. Buyers of these fake goods have no guarantee of quality and don’t receive the necessary support services. The worst part is that the consumers have no idea that they are not getting what they are paying for. When consumers pay for genuine goods, it is imperative that they actually receive genuine goods.” The owners of the shops were charged with trademark infringement offenses which carry a maximum penalty of four years imprisonment or a fine of Baht 400,000, or both. Casio has an ongoing campaign against infringers of counterfeit goods. This recent action is part of its renewed commitment to stamp out the presence of fake goods bearing the Casio, G-Shock, and Baby-G marks, especially for calculators and wristwatches in the Thai market, as part of its continuing efforts to ensure that Thai consumers are not harmed by the criminal activities of infringers. Casio plans to expand its campaign by undertaking extensive raids against companies and retail shops in Bangkok and areas upcountry to rid the Thai market of counterfeit Casio products. Casio’s representative further stated that “The proceeds generated from counterfeit goods have been linked to larger criminal networks involved in a variety of illegal activities. It is therefore important for us to rid the market of fakes by coordinating our efforts with the authorities at the Royal Thai Police.” Casio expressed its gratitude for the cooperation it has already received as police authorities have acted out of concern that consumers could be deceived about the origin and quality of these questionable products. Casio and its legal consultant pledge their continuing support for the ongoing enforcement efforts of the police. “It is everyone’s responsibility to respect intellectual property, be it copyright, trademark, or patent, and we have to support the legal system. We have to show counterfeiters that their illegal actions will lead to serious consequences.” For more information please contact: Miss Pranee Chalermtanasak PC & Associates Consulting Co., Ltd. Tel: 0-29713711 Email: Miss Sukolthip Jitmongkolthorng Tilleke & Gibbins International Ltd. Tel: 0-2263-7700 Email: [email protected] Click for photo release at www.thaipr.net